UEFA launches investigation after spitting claim in tense Ireland‑Israel clash

UEFA has launched a formal investigation into an alleged spitting incident that occurred during the Nations League match between Ireland and Israel, when the players left the field before halftime on Sunday and a scuffle broke out along the sideline.

UEFA investigates incident

The European football association reports that official reports mention an incident in or around the tunnel during halftime. UEFA's ethics and disciplinary committee will examine the case thoroughly.

The Irish staff member Damien Doyle accuses an Israeli player of having spat at him, while the Israeli football association vehemently denies this. The accusation has led to a tense atmosphere along the sideline.

Later footage shows that the Israeli Ajax player Oscar Gloukh had to be restrained by his teammates. This scene underscored the unrest that continued after the match.

Both encounters between Ireland and Israel in the Nations League were charged: the first in Debrecen ended in a 0‑3 victory for Ireland, the second in Backa Topola ended 1‑1. Both matches were played under high tension.

Ireland wore mourning ribbons during both matches in memory of the victims of the Israeli attacks in Gaza. Israel wore mourning ribbons during the second match for the victims of the Hamas attack of 7 October 2023.

The UEFA investigation shows that the association takes incidents seriously, while the symbolism of the mourning ribbons highlights the broader political and emotional context of the duel.